Flights to the US have been severely disrupted because of sudden changes to
security rules after a former London student allegedly attempted to blow up
a passenger jet as it approached Detroit.

Passengers are facing an array of new security checks and restrictions both at the airport and on board flights. Here are the main pieces of advice from airlines:

British Airways

BA has imposed a one-bag limit on all hand baggage on all US routes to allow extra security checks. Charges for placing extra hand luggage in the hold have been temporarily relaxed as a result.

Although BA does not want people to turn up at airports early, once they are there it is appealing to passengers to make their way to the departure gates as soon as possible to make time for extra searches.

Most Virgin Atlantic passengers were already limited to one item of hand baggage but the restriction has now been extended to its “Upper class” ticket holders. As with BA, those who unaware of the changes will be able to check in the extra hand baggage free.

Some passengers were initially told to bring books because the in-flight entertainment system was switched off but the confusion has now been resolved.

Passengers are asked not to arrive at the airport earlier than usual but are being advised to head to departure gates quickly.

Delta

Unlike BA and Virgin, Delta is asking people to arrive as early as possible for their flights and expect delays because of the new security checks.

Hand baggage is already restricted to one item so there are no changes to the rules but during the last hour of the flight all personal items must be stowed away. The ban extends to electrical items, blankets and even pillows.

United Airlines

Passengers are being asked to allow extra time for the check-in and the boarding process although no specific new limits have been imposed. There are also no changes to hand luggage rules.

With flights affected by delays of around an hour, passengers are urged to check www.unitedairlines.co.uk before setting off for information.

Continental

Passengers are being asked to arrive four hours early instead of the standard three to make time for the extra security checks.

As with other airlines, passengers are being subjected to a second search at the departure gate,

American Airlines

Travellers are being asked to arrive three hours before their scheduled flight and check www.aa.com for updates on any possible delays in advance. No specific changes to hand baggage limits.